What are the reasons why the LaCrosse won't start but has power?
4 Answers
If the LaCrosse won't start but has power, it could be due to a damaged starter motor, a faulty fuel pump, the gear being in D position, or a damaged engine speed sensor (crankshaft position sensor). Below are detailed explanations of these potential causes: Starter motor itself: The starter motor typically has a service life of around 100,000 kilometers. With prolonged use, the carbon brushes are prone to damage, which can prevent the engine from starting. Fuel pump: The fuel pump draws gasoline from the fuel tank and delivers it through pipelines and the fuel filter to the float chamber of the carburetor. It is because of the fuel pump that the fuel tank can be placed at the rear of the vehicle, away from the engine and below it. A damaged fuel pump will result in no fuel supply, making it impossible to start the engine. Gear in D position: The engine cannot be started in this position. This is a protective mechanism of the vehicle to prevent it from lurching forward after ignition. Fuel-injected vehicles are equipped with an electronic control fuel injection system, where gasoline is sprayed in a mist form by the injector under low pressure into the intake manifold, intake port, or cylinder, and then mixed with air to form a combustible mixture. Engine speed sensor (crankshaft position sensor): A damaged engine speed sensor (crankshaft position sensor) will result in no high-voltage spark, preventing the vehicle from starting normally.
Sometimes my Buick LaCrosse also encounters this situation: the dashboard lights up when powered on, the audio can be turned on, but upon starting, there's only a clicking sound with no action. This issue is quite common, most frequently caused by a faulty or broken starter. The starter is responsible for turning the engine, and failure may occur due to burnt contacts or a seized motor. It could also be an ignition system problem, such as aged spark plugs or failed coils, leading to ignition failure. If the fuel pump isn't working, the engine won't receive fuel for combustion, preventing startup. Additionally, even if the battery has power, insufficient voltage (requires at least 12 volts) or loose wiring causing momentary disconnection can be the culprit. The anti-theft system interfering with key recognition might also lock the vehicle—try restarting the key or locking and then unlocking the doors. Faced with this situation, don't panic. First, simply check for starter sounds or attempt a jump start. If that doesn't work, promptly contact professional repair services—safety first. Regular maintenance of the ignition and fuel supply systems can reduce such troubles, especially during cold seasons when the battery is prone to deterioration.
A car that won't start but has power is frustrating for Buick LaCrosse owners. Personally, I believe the core issues lie with the starter, ignition module, or fuel delivery system—when the starter ages and fails, the car may make a humming sound but won't move. If the ignition coil or spark plugs are severely carbon-fouled, ignition may fail, causing cold start difficulties. If the fuel pump isn't humming, the screen might be clogged or the motor could be faulty, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. Occasionally, the anti-theft key sensor may malfunction; try removing and reinserting the key to reset the system. Poor electrical connections are also common—for example, loose battery terminals need tightening. In emergencies, using a diagnostic tool to read codes can quickly pinpoint issues, such as oil pressure sensor or ECU fault codes. Remember, driving safety is paramount: if this happens, immediately turn on hazard lights, pull over, and call for towing service. Preventive maintenance, like replacing spark plugs every three years, is also crucial.
Having driven the Buick LaCrosse for decades, I've often encountered situations where the car has power but won't start. Most of the time, it's due to a worn-out starter, poor contact at the terminals, or depleted carbon brushes—sometimes a light tap can serve as an emergency fix. Issues with the ignition system, such as problems with the distributor or high-tension leads, can also easily interrupt spark generation; it's necessary to check if the coil resistance is abnormal. In terms of the fuel system, older cars often have aging fuel pumps that may stop working—listen for the pump's operation. Rusty or loose battery cable connections can cause unstable current flow; tightening the bolts might solve the issue. If the anti-theft chip isn't recognized, try unlocking the car door a few more times. Experience has taught me not to overlook minor faults in the car's computer system—software glitches can often be resolved with a reset. In case of an emergency, immediately stop in a safe location to avoid blocking the main road. I recommend checking electrical connections every season for peace of mind and safety.
